Step-by-step instructions on how to make an embroidered portrait.

Embroidered Portraits

Embroidered Portraits

Stitch custom artwork from family photos. These striking portraits — featured in Sania Pell's The Homemade Home ($24.95; CICO Books) — can each be hand-sewn in under an hour.

Kate Mathis

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Step 1

Step 1

Make a copy of your photo to avoid destroying the original; if desired, enlarge the image to fit your frame and mat. Affix the copy to watercolor paper ($9.99 per 11"W x 15"H pad; joann.com) with artist's tape ($2.99 a roll; dickblick.com).

Embroidered Portraits

Stitch custom artwork from family photos. These striking portraits — featured in Sania Pell's The Homemade Home ($24.95; CICO Books) — can each be hand-sewn in under an hour.

Kate Mathis

2Of4

Step 1

Make a copy of your photo to avoid destroying the original; if desired, enlarge the image to fit your frame and mat. Affix the copy to watercolor paper ($9.99 per 11"W x 15"H pad; joann.com) with artist's tape ($2.99 a roll; dickblick.com).

J Muckle/Studio D

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Step 2

Using a pin to punch holes through the photocopy and paper, outline facial contours, features, hair, and clothing. To create solid lines, punch closer together; for dotted lines, leave more space between holes.

J Muckle/Studio D

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Step 3

Remove the photo and use a threaded embroidery needle to sew a running stitch or backstitch along the holes, swapping in thinner thread as desired. Trim the paper to fit your frame and mat.